Fulham forward Rodrigo Muniz could be heading to West Ham as the Irons step up their pursuit of a new striker.
Brazilian striker Muniz, 23, has been on West Ham’s radar for a while.
They first showed interest under former boss Julen Lopetegui, but the Irons are now seriously targeting the Fulham man.
With big injuries to Jarrod Bowen, Michail Antonio and Niclas Fullkrug, West Ham are desperately short of options in attack.
At the time of writing, 32-year-old Danny Ings is the club’s only fit senior striker.
New boss Graham Potter had to deploy midfielder Lucas Paqueta up top in Tuesday’s 3-2 win against Fulham, with Muniz catching the eye as he came off the bench for the opposition.
West Ham Chasing Rodrigo Muniz From Fulham
The West Ham recruitment team has targeted Muniz for some time. First identified under Julen Lopetegui, Graham Potter also seems keen to bring the forward to the London Stadium.
Muniz started the season as Fulham’s leading man after a strong run last season, during which he scored eight goals in eight games.
But, having lost his place to Raul Jimenez, he has been settling for substitute appearances as of late.
This campaign, he has four goals and an assist in 22 total games.
Nevertheless, it is believed that Fulham will still want a significant fee if they are to part with the Brazilian.
West Ham are known to be pursuing a striker urgently, something which may play into Fulham’s hands.
They are under no obligation to sell Muniz, so can hold out until they receive an offer which matches their valuation.
Graham Potter is said to be taking a major part in West Ham’s recruitment policy and has identified several other options.
Aside from Muniz, West Ham are interested in Brighton’s Evan Ferguson. Potter managed the Irish international during his time with the Seagulls, and would like to work with him again.
Another possibility is Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been linked to West Ham in recent days.
